Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) consist of metal centers connected by organic ligands that form networks of pores, giving the material a rich topological and chemical diversity. MOFs have potential applications in chemical conversion, separation and storage as well as in sensing, electronics and medicine. MOFs and in particular the zeolitic imidazolate frameworks (ZIFs) make superb candidate materials for membranes. However, the fabrication of high-quality MOF membranes remains a challenge due to poor nucleation, adhesion and intergrowth of the MOF crystals. Different strategies, including in-situ and seeded growth methods along with others have been used to prepare supported MOF membranes. Very little work has been done to prepare freestanding MOFs membrane despite the benefits of lower transport resistance and larger surface area.  Freestanding ZIF-8 micromembranes were fabricated within the confined space of the glass microchannels. This is achieved by establishing two parallel flows of reactants within the channel and inducing nucleation, crystallization and growth at flow interface. ZIF-8 was successfully grown along the gap in the microchannel. Tests showed that the freestanding membrane was defect free and impervious to large dye molecules. The membrane was capable for catalysis Knoevenagel condesnation and achieved yield over 15% with a short resident time of 30 seconds.

Freestanding metal organic framework in microfluidic reactor for catalysis

248th National Meeting (2014)

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